MANILA — Fresh off the most successful Grand Slam campaign of her career, Filipino tennis sensation Alexandra Eala vowed to continue carrying the Philippine flag with pride after receiving a special tribute from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace, describing the recognition as validation for the countless unseen hours she devoted to reaching the world stage.
Honored after becoming the first Filipina to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon, Eala said the Palace reception was something she never imagined experiencing and thanked the President for recognizing her achievements and sacrifices.
“I am pretty nervous, so thank you. Thank you, Mr. President, for this special honor and for the warm welcome. I never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that I would be having dinner here at Malacañang Palace next to you and be receiving such kind and genuine words,” Eala said on Monday.
The 20-year-old tennis standout said the recognition meant more than celebrating her victories because it acknowledged the dedication and sacrifices that the public rarely sees.
“And I feel very seen, and hearing that come from you, I feel like all the hard work that I’ve done is seen. All the hours that aren’t on TV are seen and validated and appreciated. So thank you so, so much,” Eala added.
Eala also reaffirmed her commitment to proudly represent the Philippines in every tournament she competes in.
“I’ll do my best to represent the best of our country on and off the court because I’m really proud, and it comes from a genuine place of love,” she said. “I promise that I will continue to represent the Philippines in the best way that I possibly can.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hosted the homecoming reception in honor of Eala’s breakthrough Wimbledon campaign, which elevated Philippine tennis to new heights after she became the first Filipina to advance to the fourth round of the prestigious Grand Slam tournament while further improving her standing among the world’s top players.
Eala attended the reception with her parents, Mike and Rizza Eala. They were welcomed by the President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos before the dinner at the Ceremonial Hall. Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio also attended the event.
The Malacañang reception capped Eala’s homecoming following a landmark Wimbledon campaign that marked another historic milestone for Philippine tennis./PN
